Women within the Swiss Mitte party repeatedly failed to secure high-profile positions, including the Bundesrat (Swiss Federal Council), party presidency, and the parliamentary leadership. Despite expressing a preference for female candidates and advocating for their inclusion, their efforts were unsuccessful.
Following the resignation of Viola Amherd, several prominent Mitte women initially expressed interest or support for female candidates for the Bundesrat. However, ultimately, Martin Pfister, a man, was elected.
Markus Ritter, a male contender, suggested that the lack of female interest in the defense department contributed to this outcome, prompting criticism from Mitte women.
Similarly, efforts to secure a female party president also failed. Despite calls for a gender-balanced selection committee, all female candidates ultimately withdrew, leaving two male candidates to compete for the position.
The only remaining potential position for a female leader is the Fraktionspräsidium (parliamentary leadership). Although some female members expressed interest, the prospects appear uncertain.
While some attribute the lack of female representation to a lack of interest or opportunity, others point to systemic obstacles that prevent women from achieving leadership roles. The article notes that despite past success with female Bundesrätinnen, recent attempts to elevate women into top leadership positions have fallen short.